Trouble ahead for tailgate drinkers

One number going the wrong direction came from the Indiana State Excise Police over a recent weekend. It reported arresting a record 110 people on 129 charges during tailgating for the Indiana-Ball State football game.

That’s the highest number of tailgating arrests to date at IU or any other Hoosier college or university.

A couple of other numbers that should be of concern: 15, the age of the youngest person cited, and 0.20, the blood-alcohol content level hit or exceeded by “several” of the individuals arrested, according to authorities.

Numerous sources regarding blood-alcohol levels note that at 0.20, the drinker feels dazed and disoriented and might need help to stand or walk.

Some people experience nausea and vomiting at this level, and blackouts could occur. At 0.25, the level reached by a few of the people arrested, all mental, physical and sensory functions are severely impaired, and increased risk exists for asphyxiation from choking on vomit and of a serious injury due to a fall or other accident.

Trouble’s ahead.

Count on it.

Distributed by Hoosier State Press Association. Send comments to ddavis@tribtown.com.